Turkish photographer Alahattin Kanlıoğlu, a long-standing faculty member at Ege University's communications department in Izmir, Turkey, has shared a striking image from Myanmar, taken during a recent trip to the Southeast Asian nation. The photograph, which he describes as his 'best phone picture', captures a serene scene featuring flower sellers and monks on a lake, alongside traditional fishers renowned for their distinctive techniques.
Kanlıoğlu, who specialises in photography, first visited Myanmar in 2019 and was evidently deeply impressed by the country's unique cultural landscape and scenic beauty. His fascination led him to return in December 2025, this time to host a dedicated photography workshop for a group of six participants. It was during this return journey that he captured the image, highlighting the extraordinary skill of the local fishers.
He specifically lauded the 'miraculous' ability of the fishers to navigate their boats using foot-controlled oars, a practice unique to certain regions of Myanmar, particularly Inle Lake. This traditional method of propulsion allows fishers to have their hands free for handling nets and other fishing gear, a testament to centuries of adaptation to their aquatic environment. The inclusion of flower sellers and monks in the frame further illustrates the vibrant daily life and spiritual heritage intertwined with the natural setting.
The image offers a glimpse into a culture that continues to uphold traditional practices amidst a rapidly changing world. Kanlıoğlu's professional background, having worked in academia for over two decades, lends significant weight to his appreciation for the visual narrative captured in his photograph. His decision to highlight this particular phone picture underscores its powerful composition and the authentic moment it encapsulates.
The photographer’s return visit in December 2025 to lead a workshop suggests a continuing interest in documenting and sharing the unique aspects of Myanmar with a wider audience, encouraging others to appreciate its distinct cultural practices and landscapes through the lens of photography.